New Permits Hint at HUGE Disney World Changes

Major changes are coming to Disney World, and it’s a LOT to keep up with.

Splash Mountain is being transformed into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, new fireworks are coming to EPCOT and Magic Kingdom, and more. More changes could be on the way, too, and we’ve got the recently filed permits to prove it!

Changes could be coming to Disney World restaurants! A permit has been filed for “the remodel of the Frontera Cocina at Disney.” This table service spot is found in Disney Springs and is headed up by celebrity chef Rick Bayless.

The permit doesn’t go into too much detail, but the contractor listed on it (Johnson-Lancaster and Associates, Inc.) has also been listed on permits for The Cake Bake Shop.

We also spotted a new permit for work to be done at Columbia Harbour House in Magic Kingdom. It looks like there will be some “general construction” happening, but Imagineering was not listed on the permit — so it’s possible that these changes will be taking place behind the scenes.

Don’t worry — there’s more! Over in EPCOT, another permit has been filed that looks like it matches up with the left-hand side of World Celebration.

The description is to “fabricate and install set piece,” and Walt Disney Imagineering is listed as the owner — this usually means important changes, potentially even theming. It’s possible that this lines up with where Journey of Water — Inspired by Moana, but we’ll have to wait and see. It could also be for changes coming to CommuniCore Hall and Plaza.

It probably comes as no surprise that yet another permit has been filed for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. This time, it’s for the “installation of lighting hoists,” and the permit isn’t set to expire until the end of 2024. Since the ride isn’t opening until late 2024, this permit could be for some pretty serious work!

Not only that, but a permit has been filed for “general construction” at the Jungle Cruise in Magic Kingdom. Of course, this could really mean anything, but the contractor who is listed, Adena, appears to have also worked on attractions, water parks, lazy rivers, and more at other theme parks. Whether there will be noticeable changes or ones behind the scenes, we’ll have to wait and see.

Chances are there will be even more updates made to the parks before your next trip, so if you’re heading to Disney World soon stay tuned to AllEars. We’ll be keeping up with the latest permit changes and more!